Step 1: Activate the Stain
-
Sprinkle baking soda, cornstarch, or baby powder on the stain.
-
Let it sit 10–15 minutes to absorb excess grease.
-
Gently brush off the powder.
-
Step 2: Pre-Treat
-
Dishwashing liquid (like Dawn) works best because it’s designed to cut grease.
-
Apply a small amount directly on the stain.
-
Rub gently with your fingers or a soft brush.
-
Let it sit 5–10 minutes.
-
Alternative: Liquid laundry detergent can also work if dish soap isn’t available.
Step 3: Hot Water Wash
-
Check the fabric care label.
-
Wash in the hottest water safe for the fabric.
-
Use your regular detergent.
For white fabrics, adding a little baking soda or oxygen bleach can boost stain removal.
Step 4: Check Before Drying
-
Do not put in the dryer until the stain is gone — heat sets grease permanently.
-
If the stain remains, repeat steps 2–3.
Extra Tips
-
WD-40 or rubbing alcohol can help on stubborn stains (test on a hidden area first).
-
Lemon juice can help on light fabrics but may bleach darker ones.
-
Grease-fighting stain sticks or sprays sold in stores can be effective too.
💡 Quick trick: For very stubborn stains, try dish soap + baking soda paste on the stain, gently scrub, then wash. This combination often works better than either alone.
If you want, I can give a step-by-step method for delicate fabrics like silk or wool, since hot water and scrubbing can damage them. Do you want me to do that?
